Newcomers: Nick Hirschman, a 6-foot-3, 230-pound true freshman from Los Gatos, Calif., also was courted by Pac-10 schools and was considered one of the plums of CU’s 2010 recruiting class. Justin Gorman (6-0, 200) is a walk-on from Manhelm, Pa.

Biggest losses: Seth Lobato of Eaton showed some athleticism and potential last year as a recruited freshman working with the scout team. But he transferred to Northern Colorado.

Strengths: With senior Cody Hawkins and junior Tyler Hansen, Colorado may have as much experience at this position as any team in the Big 12 Conference. Hawkins, the fulltime starter in 2007 as a redshirt freshman, ranks first in CU history in TD passes (46) and is third in career passing yards (5,862), behind Kordell Stewart and Joel Klatt. Hansen took the job away from Hawkins during each of the past two seasons.

Weaknesses: Hansen started the last seven games of 2009 but hasn’t yet been named this year’s starter, although most observers expect that to happen a week or so before the Sept. 4 season opener against CSU. The Buffs roster lists only three scholarship quarterbacks, a small number for a major-college program.

What to look for: It will be a surprise if Hansen, who is more athletic and has a stronger arm, does not open the season as a starter. It also will be a surprise if Cody Hawkins, who literally grew up with the system, doesn’t get some snaps.

Dan Hawkins doesn't care about Colorado football, his goal is to get his son, LittleChickenHawk a.k.a. the Interception Smurf into the game. Hawkins is going to try and give his son reps during the game regardless of how Hansen does. He is immune to doing what is best for the team and benching his son for good. I say the Interception Smurf doesn't deserve one more play of D1 football!! Practice safe winning D1 football, say “NO” to nepotism.